Page 52 of Scoring Chance

She nodded. “That’s what worries me.”

I shook my head. She wasn’t making sense.

“How do you feel about her?” She searched my face like she was expecting something.

“I just told you. I care about her.”

“As a friend?” She pushed.

I shrugged. “Yeah.”

“Anything more?”

Why was she asking? Of all people I didn’t think Amelia’s boss would be the person to bring this up. Then again, Madi was in the Pride. That relationship always came first.

“I’m not sure,” I answered honestly.

“Do you want to be more than friends?”

Yes. Of course, I did. She already listed how great Amelia was, so I didn't have to. Amelia had ignored the gossip about me and got to know me on her own. She refused to let other people influence her opinions. She worked hard, but still managed to support her friends and family. She was there for me every single time I needed her. I’d gotten used to her being around over the last few weeks. I liked spending time with her. I was definitely attracted to her.

None of that mattered without one crucial piece. Most of the time she treated me like a friend, so I followed her lead.

I let out a sigh and nodded. “Yeah, I do.”

Madi seemed surprised by my admission.

“Wrong answer.”

I jumped at the sound of Nikolay’s deep, Russian accent. I closed my eyes and wished for the ground to open and swallow me whole. This was the absolute last thing I needed.

I turned to see him stomping across the room toward us.

He towered over me with his hands on his hips. “Stay away from her.”

I shot a look at Madi but she just scooted away and stood. “I’ll see you later.”

I glared at her retreating back. That traitor. Did she set me up?

“Nikolay, I respect that you’re protective of Amelia. You’re her almost brother-in-law, but that doesn't change how I feel.”

His eyes narrowed to slits. “She’s too good for you.”

I laughed. “I’m well aware.”

He shook his head and his shouldered relaxed. “As long as you remember that. Don’t even think of hurting her.”

That was fair. “I won’t. If I ever do, you have permission to hurt me accordingly.”

He was silent for a moment before cracking a smile. “I will, but last time I talked to her she said you two were friends.”

I nodded. “I haven’t told her how I feel.”

His eyes ran over me. “Chicken.”

A bark of laughter escaped my mouth. “Yeah. I am.”

“Don’t be stupid. If you don’t tell her, she’ll never know. She could find someone else. Someone who doesn’t make your mistake and miss his chance.”